England get major boost as key Man City man resumes training following injury scare

England trained with a full complement of 26 players after arriving in Germany ahead of their opening Euro 2024 fixture with Serbia on Sunday.

Gareth Southgate trimmed his squad to 26 last week, controversially omitting Manchester City winger Jack Grealish, while Manchester United defender Harry Maguire was left out for fitness reasons.

Maguire's absence put the pressure on John Stones, the most experienced centre-back in the squad, but fears were raised when he hurt his ankle in England's final warm-up game vs Iceland last week. He was replaced at half-time at Wembley out of precaution.

ALSO READ: Six forgotten players could join Man City pre-season squad after Pep Guardiola revelation

ALSO READ: "Believe me!" - Noel Gallagher drops exciting hint on Pep Guardiola's Man City future

Now, however, Stones is back in training and is seemingly over the knock picked up against Iceland, as Southgate welcomed a full squad for open training in Germany on Tuesday.

Stones' experience will be key for England, and he is likely to be partnered by Crystal Palace man Marc Guehi. Stones found himself out of favour towards the end of the season for City following a series of minor injuries throughout the season, with Manu Akanji moving above him in the defensive pecking order.

However, Stones did start the FA Cup final, and Pep Guardiola will be keen for him to enjoy a good tournament in Germany before returning to the Etihad in form ahead of the new season.

England play Serbia on Sunday, before taking on Denmark next Thursday and a final group game with Slovenia the following Tuesday.